Two plumbers are swapping bathroom floors for the classroom after launching a new training centre for budding tradesman.

Mark Ongley and Phil Hickey launched their Mr Plumber courses from a warehouse in Murston, near Sittingbourne, after 10 years as friends in the industry.

The pair said classes have been running at full capacity since opening in September, taking on extra staff to run additional sessions.

The centre is running an open weekend on Saturday and Sunday, January 23 and 24, for anyone interested in picking up the tools.

Mr Ongley, who grew up in Medway and lives in Sittingbourne, said: “We’re delighted with the progress of the centre so far.

“We have interest from ex-Army, commercial and local businesses. Local support has been a great help to make it a success. We’re really excited for the future.”

Nr Hickey added: “We’re just two plumbers who wanted to be able to give others an honest trade and open a training centre like no other.”